No excuses: 4 ways to keep your fitness on point this holiday season

By Bethany Stirdivant

Nov 21, 2018 | 6:00 AM

You don't have to be "Cookie Monster" to participate in CicLAvia, a popular and often whimsical public event. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Many people put fitness as their No. 1 New Year’s resolution. Instead of waiting until January to begin pursuing your fitness goals, kick-start them in December and continue through the New Year. These free (and almost free) local events offer a little something for everyone.

CicLAvia

Ease into fitness by dusting off that old bike or pair of roller skates. Join thousands of cyclists, walkers and skaters as they make their way through the streets of downtown Los Angeles during CicLAvia’s annual Heart of LA. The route temporarily closes streets to car traffic and opens them to Angelenos on bikes and skates. Free for all, CicLAvia “connects communities to each other across an expansive city, creating a safe place” to begin your fitness journey.

Fitbit events

Owning a Fitbit is not necessary at the free, monthly community events led by local ambassadors Blake Raymond and Elise Joan, but you may walk away with one. Blake, a fitness professional who teaches multiple fitness classes throughout the city, and Elise Joan, a yoga professional and wellness influencer, pair their strengths. According to Joan, the events offer HIIT workouts and yoga all in one hour. Events are open to everyone of every fitness level.

December event: Saturday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m.-noon

Where: Pan Pacific Park, 7600 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles

What: Walk, jog, run and get your steps in through the surrounding L.A. streets while picking up litter along the way

Yoga Expo

Looking for a way to calm the mind and body in today’s complicated and stressful world? Then visit the Fourth Annual Yoga Expo and take time to realign yourself. The Yoga Expo is a one-day event offering attendees more than 50 yoga and meditation classes. Additionally, you’ll find a marketplace consisting of 200-plus yoga and wellness products and services.

TheFitExpo Los Angeles

Looking for an event that has a little something for everyone? Then check out the 16th annual TheFitExpo Los Angeles. What started off as a bodybuilding, strength, and fitness event has grown over the years to encompass all aspects of health and fitness. You can also participate in group fitness classes led by Billy Blanks and Instagram celeb Ana Cheri and visit hundreds of booths offering free samples and mega deals.